subject: Edit Windows Registry [print this page] Edit Windows Registry Edit Windows Registry
You should first back up the Windows Registry prior to editing it. Incorrect alterations to the Windows Registry may result in corrupted files, or worse, permanent loss of data. To open the Registry Editor, click on "Start", then "Run". In the "Run" box, key in "regedit" then click OK.
When you first launch the Registry Editor to edit the Windows Registry, you will see a window with 2 panes. The left pane displays a tree with several folders, while the right pane displays the values or contents of the folder or key that is currently selected.
You can double click the folder or click on the + sign to the left of the folder for expanding a specific branch. You can also click a specific key or folder and view the values shown on the right side for displaying a folder's contents. You can likewise add a value or key by clicking on "New" from the "Edit" options, and rename a value or key by using the same method utilized for renaming files. Lastly, you can delete either a value or key by right-clicking and selecting "Delete" from the drop down menu, or by clicking on it and then pressing the "Delete" key on your keyboard.
It is important to note that the incorrect use of the Registry Editor to edit the Windows Registry can cause severe problems which can lead to the re-installation of the operating system. With this in mind, only use the Registry Editor only when you are confident enough.
